You're the only one who can answer that. Does it? Remember the old adage? Well if it hurts don't do it. Sorry I jest.

I heard early on with my RA, that movement of joints helps to distribute synovial fluid throughout the joint, theoretically helping all the articulating surface. However, that doesn't account for joint damage, such as messed up synovium, osteoarthritis, and whatever. And remember, joint pain is likely caused by inflammation of synovial membranes.

I've tried to keep moving, but I'd recommend you talk to your doctor.

In an intense flare, even breathing seems to hurt sometimes! But in general, movement helps increase the natural lubrication in your joints and eases pain. Perhaps when you're past the acute stage it will be more helpful.

I'd also suggest, if you have unresolved pain, asking for a referral for physical therapy if that's possible. PT's have helped me understand that some very basic things I was doing incorrectly - not related the the RA itself - were making the symptoms worse. Under their guidance, I changed a few routine things (like the position of the seat when i'm driving) and broke a few bad habits (the way I sit in the chair when i'm practicing my horn, which is a few hours a day) and was taught to walk correctly (I'd been sort of sliding my feet instead of lifting them). All of those things in combination have made a big difference in my overall achiness and soreness, even though they weren't necessarily related to the RA issues, and that's helped me overall.

Gentle hugs to you, dear.

Moving is tricky. It can help or it can hinder. You need to know your own body. Never push when an activity causes pain.

I find if I don't move, I also get stiff. But my RA is mostly under control. I try and do stretches for the body, and specific ones for the hands every day or two. But I really hurt my knee (maybe a broken osteophyte?) so I pulled back. Three weeks of only exercising once. I need to do the weights and stretches I can.

Be very slow and careful with what you try. Also, there are physiotherapists in hospitals that specialize in RA exercises. You should see if you can find one. In Canada, they don't cost any money in the hospital. That might be another route to start at.